Beech Tree News Network

Health seems to be in the media quite a bit lately. Since I enjoy learning how to improve my life, I’ve been reading the health-related information I’ve come across. As the ancient Roman poet Virgil said, “The greatest wealth is health.”

I was given a 2018 calendar that provided health tips for each month. Three of those included:

·       Hand washing: Hand washing is by far the best way to eliminate harmful germs and prevent illness. Hand washing should be done before and after eating or preparing food (particularly raw meat), after using the toilet, coughing or touching an animal. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer may be applied to kill germs.

·       Stress relief: In order to combat stress, one must identify what causes it. Write down what stresses you for several weeks then be aware of these situations and take a second to relax when they arise. Physical activity is another great way to de-stress as it releases mood-boosting endorphins. Sleep is critical so we might avoid caffeine in the evening and stay away from the phone, computer and TV about an hour before bed. Also, if you have trouble coping, consult a healthcare professional.

·       Sun protection: Although sunlight is good for our health, we must always protect against ultraviolet radiation. Having five or more significant sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 has shown to increase the risk of skin cancer by 70-80%.

The January (2018) issue of Better Homes & Gardens (pages 96, 100, 102) also included health-related information:

·       Sodium: Risk for diabetes goes up 45% for each extra 1000 mg of sodium eaten daily. Our goal should be to stay under 2300 mg (According to the Mayo Clinic website, a single teaspoon of table salt has 2,325 mg of sodium.). Experts suspect that too much sodium may lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes.

·       Protein and B vitamins: To feel energized, eat protein and B vitamins. Since protein is absorbed slowly, it gives the body a stream of energy, and the body uses B vitamins to turn food into energy. Good sources of both protein and B vitamins include eggs, beef, chicken, beans and tofu.

·       Probiotics:  Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria in the digestive system that helps keep it running smoothly while also making it tough for bad bacteria to multiply. Foods to help us with probiotics include beans and lentils. Also, check nondairy yogurt for labels for the probiotics bulgaricus and thermophilus.

·       Antioxidants: Research shows that berries and cherries are a rich source of antioxidants. High-antioxidant foods help the body with protection from harmful elements that can cause health problems. Also, new studies suggest that nutrients high in antioxidants and other natural ingredients can boost the speed at which the brains of older adults take in information.

Additionally, the Mayo Clinic website contained an article (https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sympt...) which listed seven signs and symptoms indicating one should seek healthcare:

·       Unexplained weight loss

·       Persistent or high fever

·       Shortness of breath

·       Unexplained changes in bowel habits

·       Confusion or personality changes

·       Feeling full after eating very little

·       Flashes of light

Health information may change with new research, but health professionals share their knowledge to improve our lives. Leon Eldred said, “If I’d known I was going to live so long, I’d have taken better care of myself” (http://www.quotegarden.com/health.html). Eldred made a good point. By taking care of our health, we are being kind to ourselves.